Warsaw: Polish justice minister Waldemar Zurek said on Thursday that Europe must move toward closer integration as global politics shift under the current United States administration. He said the policies of President Donald Trump have created a new reality in which the European Union cannot depend as much on Washington for long term security.
Zurek, a member of Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s pro European government, said the best response to the uncertainty in transatlantic ties is for EU countries to strengthen defence cooperation and work together more closely. He added that Europe must learn to stand on its own feet in security matters rather than expect the US to carry most of the burden.
His comments come at a time when Poland’s political scene is divided between the pro EU government and President Karol Nawrocki, who maintains a close relationship with Trump and supports a stronger role for the US in European security. Zurek said this division raises an important question about Poland’s future direction and its place in Europe.
The minister also said the European Union should move faster on Ukraine’s path to membership. He said Ukraine has shown strong military capability and believes Europe will be stronger with Ukraine inside the bloc.
Across Europe, reactions to the US approach have been mixed. Some leaders, including Hungary’s prime minister Viktor Orban, have welcomed parts of Trump’s strategy. Others see it as a sign that Europe must quickly develop its own defence strength and reinforce political unity.
EU institutions are already taking steps toward greater cooperation. This week the European Council and European Parliament agreed on new rules to screen foreign investment more carefully, a move aimed at protecting Europe’s economic security.
Zurek said the coming months will be crucial for Europe as countries decide whether to move toward deeper integration or rely on traditional alliances that are now changing.